President Donald Trump signed an executive order Thursday directing federal agencies to reduce some mortgage-related costs and support the development of manufactured housing, as high housing expenses and borrowing costs remain a concern for Americans ahead of the midterm elections. The order, signed Oct. 22, comes amid a slow housing market and rising lending costs. It also calls for steps to encourage manufactured housing, which can offer an alternative to traditionally built homes, though the announcement did not specify expected savings for buyers or set out a timeline for results. The White House said the administration is seeking to reduce costs and regulatory hurdles. “Homeownership is a vital pillar of our great Nation,” the administration said in a statement, adding that it is working to make homeownership more affordable. Housing costs have become a central economic issue in the midterm campaign, with voters facing pressure from home prices and mortgage rates. Whether the directives translate into lower monthly payments will depend on the actions agencies take and broader market conditions, including borrowing costs.